HED4809
ASSIGNMENT 2
ANSWERS 2025
HED4809 ASSIGNMENT 2 ANSWERS
2025
, HED4809
Assignment 02
1. Introduction (10 marks)**
Social structures are complex and multifaceted, shaped by a multitude of interacting
forces. To understand these dynamics, sociologists utilize various theoretical
frameworks that provide distinct lenses through which to examine society. This
assignment will delve into three pivotal sociological theories: Conflict Theory,
Functionalism, and Marxist Theory. These theories offer unique perspectives on
social inequality, class consciousness, and the role of education in perpetuating or
challenging existing power structures. Functionalism views society as an
interconnected system striving for equilibrium, while Conflict Theory emphasizes
power struggles and disparities. Marxist Theory, with its focus on class conflict and
economic exploitation, offers a critical perspective on the inherent inequalities within
capitalist societies.
This assignment aims to analyse these theories in the context of education,
exploring how they illuminate the complexities of the educational system and its
impact on individuals and society. The assignment will examine how each theory
interprets the purpose and function of education, paying particular attention to the
interplay between social class, power, and educational attainment. Specifically, it will
address the concepts of class consciousness, false consciousness, and hegemony
as they manifest within educational institutions. Furthermore, it will explore Neo-
Marxist interpretations of schooling, critically evaluating its role in both perpetuating
and potentially challenging capitalist structures. Finally, the assignment will analyse
the limitations of Functionalism in addressing poverty and inequality in education,
highlighting alternative perspectives offered by Conflict Theory and Neo-Marxism.
ASSIGNMENT 2
ANSWERS 2025
HED4809 ASSIGNMENT 2 ANSWERS
2025
, HED4809
Assignment 02
1. Introduction (10 marks)**
Social structures are complex and multifaceted, shaped by a multitude of interacting
forces. To understand these dynamics, sociologists utilize various theoretical
frameworks that provide distinct lenses through which to examine society. This
assignment will delve into three pivotal sociological theories: Conflict Theory,
Functionalism, and Marxist Theory. These theories offer unique perspectives on
social inequality, class consciousness, and the role of education in perpetuating or
challenging existing power structures. Functionalism views society as an
interconnected system striving for equilibrium, while Conflict Theory emphasizes
power struggles and disparities. Marxist Theory, with its focus on class conflict and
economic exploitation, offers a critical perspective on the inherent inequalities within
capitalist societies.
This assignment aims to analyse these theories in the context of education,
exploring how they illuminate the complexities of the educational system and its
impact on individuals and society. The assignment will examine how each theory
interprets the purpose and function of education, paying particular attention to the
interplay between social class, power, and educational attainment. Specifically, it will
address the concepts of class consciousness, false consciousness, and hegemony
as they manifest within educational institutions. Furthermore, it will explore Neo-
Marxist interpretations of schooling, critically evaluating its role in both perpetuating
and potentially challenging capitalist structures. Finally, the assignment will analyse
the limitations of Functionalism in addressing poverty and inequality in education,
highlighting alternative perspectives offered by Conflict Theory and Neo-Marxism.
